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Photo By: PCWBB Instagram
The Providence Friars women's basketball team had an explosive start to their season as they faced off against the Hampton Pirates on opening night under the guidance of their new head coach, Erin Batth. The Friars came out with a clear game plan was to push the pace, play tenacious defense, and bring high energy to the court. Right from the tip-off, the Providence Friars demonstrated their determination, embarking on a 9-0 run, leaving the Pirates in awe. With 8:21 remaining in the first quarter, the Pirates were forced to call a timeout as they struggled to keep up with the Friars' fast-paced gameplay. The Pirates Amayah Reaves managed to score their first basket, narrowing the gap to 11-2. However, the Friars continued their onslaught, and with just 2:37 left in the first quarter, Hamptons Camyrn Hill sank a three-pointer, trying to cut into the Friars' lead. The first quarter ended with the Friars in the driver's seat, leading 24-10, boasting impressive shooting percentages of 63% from the field, 50% from three-point range, and 5 steals. As the game progressed into the second quarter, the Pirates showed resilience but struggled to contain the Friars. Grace Efosa drained a three-pointer, and Kylee Sheppard delivered a beautiful assist to Grace for a 32-16 lead. The Pirates Ariana Wilks managed to chip in with a jumper and a layup. By halftime, the Friars were comfortably leading 39-20, with three of their players in double figures, shooting at 48% from the field, and securing 10 steals. On the other side, Amayah Reeves led the Pirates with 8 points. In the third quarter, the Friars maintained their dominance. Olivia Olsen made an "and-1" play, followed by a turnaround jumper, extending the lead to 46-22. The Pirates Camyrn Hill managed to contribute with a bucket, but Olivia continued to shine with another basket down low. Despite the Pirates' efforts, they were still trailing 59-34 at the end of the third quarter. The fourth quarter saw the Friars comfortably maintaining their lead, with their starting five getting some rest. A highlight moment came when Kylee blocked a shot, sending the fans into a frenzy. However, the Pirates' LeAsia Foreman managed to steal the ball and score an easy layup. The game ended with the Friars in complete control, securing a final score of 76-46. The Friars had an impressive performance, with three players in double figures: Olivia with 25 points, 8 rebounds, and 2 blocks, Martha Morales with 13 points, 6 rebounds, and 3 steals, and Grace Efosa with 21 points, 6 rebounds, and 3 steals. Kylee contributed 8 assists. The high scorers for the Hampton Pirates were Cameron Hill with 20 points and Amayah Reeves with 15 points. Under the new coach's leadership, the Providence Friars made a resounding statement on their opening night, showcasing their potential for an exciting season ahead.
